Johnson Baseball Team Earns Historic NAIA Top 25 Votes

Johnson Baseball Team Earns Historic NAIA Top 25 Votes
March 5, 2025

Knoxville, TN— For the first time in school history, the Johnson Royals baseball team has received votes in the NAIA Top 25 Coaches' Poll, marking a significant milestone for the program.

Historic Context

This achievement is particularly noteworthy considering the Royals' record just two seasons ago (2022-23) was 5-44. The transformation underscores the rapid development and resilience of the team.

Season Performance

The Royals currently boast a 14-3 overall record, with a 5-1 mark in conference play. Their season includes a seven-game winning streak and notable midweek victories against top-tier opponents:

  • Defeated #5-ranked University of the Cumberlands (KY).

  • Triumphed over receiving votes (RV) Milligan University.

NAIA Top 25 Poll Details

In the latest NAIA Coaches' Poll, Johnson University received four votes. While this places them outside the Top 25, it positions them among programs garnering national attention. Notably, conference rivals Tennessee Wesleyan and Reinhardt University are ranked #2 and #6, respectively, with Milligan University receiving 37 votes.

Leadership and Program Development

Central to the Royals' resurgence is Head Coach Dave Serrano, who joined Johnson University in July 2023. Coach Serrano's extensive coaching career includes:

  • Head Coach at UC Irvine (2005-2007), leading the team to their first College World Series appearance.

  • Head Coach at Cal State Fullerton (2008-2011), guiding the Titans to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and a College World Series berth.

  • Head Coach at the University of Tennessee (2012-2017).

  • Head Coach at Cal State Northridge (2020-2022).

His teams have won 15 conference titles, and he is one of 13 coaches to lead two different programs to the College World Series.

Coach Serrano's impact on Johnson University's baseball culture, recruitment, and overall program development has been profound, laying a solid foundation for future success.

Looking Ahead

The Royals' recent accomplishments not only highlight their current success but also signal a promising future. As they continue conference play, the team aims to build on this momentum, striving for higher rankings and postseason opportunities. They will look to carry this momentum into this weekend as they host #2 Tennessee Wesleyan in a big 3 game AAC conference matchup.